Kelley Irwin

One day in 2022, the doctor confirmed a diagnosis that would rock our family. Say Hi to my Dad below to make his day if you can!

It has been one year since we received a formal medical diagnosis of dementia. It has been both harder to deal with and more rewarding than I expected. Rewarding as we find joy in tiny moments that may have previously passed too quickly to acknowledge.

Mom asked me to share our story in these posts in order to help others. She is thrilled for every person who responds with a story in their own family, an encouraging word, or even just a thumbs up. This is a club nobody asks to join, and yet one that can helps just by knowing you are not alone.

Dad loves to hear what I am up to. And Dad can still read although a bit slower than before. Please share a hi, hello, or how do you do in the comments below. I’ll show them to him. I guarantee every word will make him smile.

One of my favorite pictures of me and Dad (2021) – for the laughter, not the quality of the photo.